Mission Report: Puerto Montt, Chile

Arrival and Initial Observations

We arrived safely in Puerto Montt, Chile, and were grateful to God that everything went smoothly with our travels. Upon arrival, we met with Roberto and Júlia and listened to many powerful testimonies about the transformative work God is doing in this region.

Currently, there are two Braços Abertos Chile (Open Arms Chile) projects operating in different communities. Roberto shared how the ministry has been advancing, deeply impacting both the children served and the volunteers involved.

In one of the projects, many children live with their grandparents due to the absence of their parents, particularly father figures. Through the Scriptures, Roberto and Júlia have been helping these children confront and begin to heal from this emotional void.

In the second project, the need is even more urgent. The community is facing extreme poverty exacerbated by a national crisis, resulting in severe food shortages. Children as young as six are reportedly resorting to theft due to hunger. In this setting, Roberto and Júlia have been faithfully teaching about the Good Shepherd, who lays down His life for His sheep.

Tomorrow, we plan to distribute food baskets to the homes of some of these children. However, the overall need remains vast and pressing.

Note: Local reports indicate that dead animals, including dogs, are being found around the cities. There is concern they are being used as food due to extreme hunger.

Ongoing Field AssessmentReality on the Ground: Chiloé Island Region

In the Chiloé Island area, rates of sexual violence are alarmingly higher than the national average. On smaller surrounding islands, the situation is even more dire. In some places, familial sexual abuse has become tragically normalized, with reports of parents abusing their own children.

Local churches, often small and fearful, tend to avoid involvement. This has left a vacuum, allowing spiritual darkness to spread.

Witchcraft is also strongly present both on the islands and in Puerto Montt. Some schools are named Aquelarre—a term referring to a witches’ gathering in the presence of the devil, symbolized by a goat, and associated with black magic rituals.

Amidst such darkness, we hold fast to the truth that where the light of Christ shines, darkness cannot remain.

Community Challenges in Puerto Montt

During our visit through the streets of this community, we witnessed an environment heavily impacted by drug trafficking and frequent gang violence. According to the neighborhood association leader, the community suffers from deep social neglect and vulnerability, especially affecting families and children. Drug use is widespread and deeply concerning. Many parents are reportedly addicted and unable to provide basic care. Some even encourage their children to steal as a means of securing food.

Project Impact

Despite these overwhelming challenges, the Open Arms Chile project in this community is reaching approximately 30 children. The project offers care, support, and activities that instill dignity and hope. It stands as a bright and tangible beacon of Christ’s love in a place marked by hardship and neglect.

Testimony

Yesterday, we visited a family to share the message of Jesus. We prayed with the mother of a child, and afterward provided much-needed food supplies. The mother wept upon receiving the help, revealing the intense level of hunger and hardship this region is experiencing. As we present Jesus, we present hope—introducing the God who brings restoration and order.

Final Reflections and Gratitude

I want to express my heartfelt thanks to everyone who has been praying for us during this mission in Chile. As we wrap up our work here, we are filled with gratitude for all that God has allowed us to experience and accomplish.

On our last day, we attended worship at Viña Church in Puerto Montt. Later, we spent meaningful time with the team from CBAC (Open Arms Community Chile), conducting a training session. It was a rich time of fellowship, learning, and mutual encouragement.

We praise God for the powerful work He is doing through this committed team. Please continue to pray for Roberto, Júlia, and their children, as well as for the many kids they minister to. We also ask for prayers that more partners would be raised up and that local churches would grow in their commitment to this mission.

After a productive mission we began our long journey back to Brazil and gave thanks upon our safe arrival.

May God richly bless you all!